Emergency services in New Zealand are engaged in a critical search and rescue operation following a series of catastrophic landslides triggered by record-breaking rainfall on Thursday, 22 January 2026. The severe weather event has led to at least two confirmed fatalities, with several individuals reported missing and feared trapped under debris.
Mount Maunganui Campsite Devastated by Landslide
One of the most significant incidents occurred at Mount Maunganui, where a massive landslide tore through the popular Beachside Holiday Park. The force of the landslide caused extensive damage to the campsite, burying structures and vehicles under rubble. Rescue teams, including police, fire services, and volunteers, are working tirelessly to locate any survivors, although authorities have indicated there is currently no sign of life among those still unaccounted for.
Welcome Bay House Impacted in Separate Landslide
In a separate but related event, a landslide struck a residential property in Welcome Bay. Two individuals managed to escape the collapsing house, but tragically, the bodies of two others were recovered from the site. This incident underscores the widespread nature of the disaster, affecting both recreational and residential areas across the region.
Record Rainfall Precedes the Tragic Events
The landslides were precipitated by a day of unprecedented rainfall, which set new records for the area. Meteorologists have warned that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent due to climate change, raising concerns about future risks to communities in vulnerable locations. The heavy downpours saturated the soil, leading to instability on slopes and triggering the deadly slides.
Ongoing Emergency Response and Community Impact
Emergency crews continue their efforts to search for missing persons, using specialised equipment and drones to navigate the hazardous terrain. The local community has been urged to avoid the affected areas to allow rescue operations to proceed unimpeded. Support services are being mobilised to assist displaced residents and those traumatised by the events.
This tragedy highlights the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in regions prone to such natural hazards. As the search continues, thoughts are with the families of the victims and those awaiting news of their loved ones.
